Emerge CYBRPNK Event Review
When you hear the word cyberpunk, what's the first thing that comes to mind?
Some might answer Bladerunner, androids, A.I or a computer-dominated society overrun with technology, but at ROQ Initiatives Emerge event, the only word I could think of was community. When first entering the space, you’re met with a cyberpunk society's classic neon noir look. While walking into the area, projections danced across the walls in vibrant green and purple hues evoking a futuristic setting provided by the talented light master Rita Jimenez also known as iritadescent.
These enigmatic projections weren’t the only thing that caught my attention; as I continued walking in, and noticed what seemed to be debris in the middle of the floor. For those unfamiliar with the cyberpunk genre, this might have seemed a little off-putting, but for those who are familiar, they would know that in a cyberpunk world, as technology and capitalism grow, the lower class seems to erode and decay. The centerpiece of debris serves as a reminder of the dangerous effects of a world driven by capital gain. Smoke filled the air symbolizing the effects of pollution, and ears were pierced by the synth sounds provided by DJ Annywarhol. I reached out to Anny to get her perspective on the event and hear what she had to say.
Mustapha- First, I want to ask if you have performed at an Emerge event before, and given the specific theme, did you have any problems curating a sound to match the vibe?
Anny- No, this was my first time performing for an Emerge Event. When I first accepted the gig, I wasn’t aware it was a cyberpunk theme, but it was all good, it was a learning experience and challenged me as a DJ. I appreciated how Diego worked with me on curating the sounds for the event but still let me do my thing!
After observing the centerpiece, I began to walk around and survey the vendors. Each vendor was unique in their own right; one sold clothes while another sold records; I even participated in an interactive collage wall which somewhat reminded me of the communal cave paintings of prehistoric times, a time before capital gain, a time when community and creativity were all human civilization had. One vendor in particular stuck out to me, and that was 444.thesoul. Again I reached out to get a statement from the owner, Jessica, and here is what she had to say.
Jessica- This was my second time attending a roqinitiative Emerge event BUT my first time actually being a part of one, and I can truly say Diego never misses! These events are so one of a kind when it comes to spotlighting local creatives of so many different assets. Even as a vendor, Diego allowed me to show attendees how I make the products I sell so that each part of the event offered an interactive experience for everyone there. He has definitely locked in a returning supporter.
When I finished looking at the vendor's tables, I noticed a multipanel photo booth and decided to talk to the person taking the pictures, Adam Echa, also known as amaku_guy. He relayed to me that the whole event was sparked by the idea of the photobooth, which I found incredible. The line was pretty lengthy, so I decided to come back when it was shorter to get my pictures taken, and I wasn’t let down.
Shortly after getting my photo taken, the performers were ready to go, so I made my way to the stage area, where I was met with one of the dopest stage designs I’d ever seen. Shortly after I arrived at the stage area, the performers went on. Each performance seemed to bring a different energy that seamlessly meshed with the cyberpunk theme. Some were somber, others a little more angsty, but all seemed to voice the emotions of the ordinary person living in a world crippled by corporate rule.
I got the chance to speak to one of the performers Daniel Martin and here’s what he had to say
Mustapha- Was this you’re first time performing for an Emerge Event, and if so, how welcoming would you say the environment was?
Daniel- No, I’ve played for Diego’s event once before on the fourth floor of Mana (Mana Contemporary is where the event was held). The crowd and energy are always welcoming, very warm, and supportive. Usually, a collaboration slot between multiple artists and vendors creates a great air of culture.
Mustapha- Would you encourage other artists to reach out to Diego for an opportunity to perform at future Emerge Events?
Daniel- Of course
After the performers were finished, I wanted to speak to Diego to get a statement from the curator himself, we spoke briefly, but he had things to attend to, so I decided it’d be best to talk to him later. When we did speak again, this is what he had to say.
Mustapha- So, what was the inspiration behind the event?
Diego- I’ve been interested in creating immersive experiences with the showcases I put together, which was accomplished by establishing themes for each event based on specific film genres. In February, I did a film noir theme which is a type of film I very much respect and love, established in the 1940-50s. The golden age of Hollywood. Black and white. The April Artist showcase was on the theme of cyberpunk which is heavily inspired by Blade Runner. The music and vendors revolved around the theme, so the immersive aspects of it involved a custom Cyberpunk-themed stage design, engaging elements like my TV installation, a live painter, and a tattoo artist being present. Overall I aspire to create unique experiences for you, the guest, and the involved performers similar to the atmosphere and experience of a festival. A main drive is building a community that supports itself! Mainly with these events but also through our video portraits and documentary work
All in all, I have to say I enjoyed my time at the Emerge Event and look forward to the next. I also encourage all creatives to come to the next, whether for networking purposes or just to vibe and enjoy phenomenal art.